Relais & Châteaux is an exclusive collection of 500 of the finest charming hotels and gourmet restaurants in 60 countries. From the vineyards in Napa valley to the beaches in Bali, from the olive trees in Provence to the lodges in South Africa, Relais & Châteaux offers all the stops on the finest route for discovering each special place and country.
In all our properties, each maître de maison draws upon his unique experience and passion to share the authentic culture and tastes of his region with every guest.
Magical places and memories of a lifetime: whether it be a romantic weekend or to celebrate the important moments of life such as birthdays, anniversaries, honeymoon or family reunions.
Established in France more than 50 years ago, Relais & Châteaux has become a renowned reference of excellence in the hotel and restaurant world. The Association's mission is to spread its unique art de vivre across the globe by selecting outstanding properties with a truly unique character.
Set on 6,000 acres near Matauri Bay, Northland, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs affords spectacular 180-degree views of the Pacific Ocean and overlooks a championship golf course. The beautiful panoramic view encompasses Cape Brett, the famous “hole in the rock” and the Cavalli Islands. This splendid plantation lodge hosts a spacious living room, two private day rooms, computer room, and a beautiful dining room with outdoor decks overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Eleven outlying guest cottages, each with two guest suites, provide accommodation at Kauri Cliffs. The cottages and a magnificent spa facility are nestled on the edge of a native Totara forest overlooking the ocean and golf course and have been designed to offer the same stunning 180-degree vista as the main lodge from the private room verandas.
Describing this lodge as a “golfers’ paradise” is true but does not even begin to tell the whole story… The golf course meandering along the top of the abrupt green cliffs of this part of New Zealand is just one of the many reasons to stay at this lodge with its modern and inviting interior design and sophisticated pleasures. Nestled in a great wine region, the lodge is an ideal base from which to discover the surrounding estates and find out more about the country’s wines. Rafting and fishing in the rushing torrents, galloping along the immense beaches on horseback, the spa, helicopter and hot air balloon rides are just some of the many activities available. You could spend your whole life here and never cease to find new sources of pleasure…
Established in a 19th century Victorian residence, Otahuna Lodge seamlessly knits past and present together: period woodwork, stained glass windows and 15 working fireplaces provide the atmosphere for a host of modern comforts and a rich collection of contemporary New Zealand art. Outside, this little hill among the hills (“Otahuna” in Maori) unveils striking views over the Canterbury Plains and the Banks Peninsula. The song of native bellbirds invites guests into the hundred-year old gardens to discover hidden glades and ponds.
Lake Wanaka is an ecological sanctuary and one of New Zealand’s best preserved sites. On its banks stands this private and modern retreat with glass architecture to ensure that it blends discreetly into the landscape. Its opulent designer interiors guarantee intense experiences, whether you prefer salmon or trout fishing, horseback riding, a relaxing hot tub or picnics surrounded by mother nature. Or, take a short helicopter ride to the nearby mountains where you utilise this retreat’s private chalet, to immerse yourself in other adventures or simply ski down slopes of pure snow.
On Lake Wakatipu, in one of the most serene landscapes in the world, the Matakauri Lodge offers stunning views of the mountain ranges. Each of the 11 beautiful suites has a private porch, bedroom with sitting area and open fireplace, a walk-in wardrobe and bathroom. Eight of them are private cottages, the three other are housed in the main lodge which also boasts a spacious lounge, dining and living areas with views of the lake. A magnificent spa with pool, sauna and fitness centre all combine to make this the ideal retreat, just 7 minutes from Queenstown.
Leave the real world behind at Huka Lodge, a place of unrivalled beauty on the banks of the Waikato River with its hypnotic turquoise green waters, located just upstream from the mighty Huka Falls. This part of the world enjoys a gentle climate, a leisurely pace and a spectacular landscape of snow-capped volcanic mountain peaks, wild tussock, lush wilderness and clear blue lakes and streams. Founded in the 1920s, Huka Lodge has become one of New Zealand’s most iconic retreats. |Comfort, ambience, gourmet cuisine, fine wine and attentive service all ensure extraordinary hospitality|. On its approximately seven hectares of manicured grounds, 25 guest rooms provide secluded accommodation. Guests can choose from an array of activities, including the “Huka Experience”, a scenic helicopter flight over the magnificent Kaimanawa Ranges, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Tongariro National Park and a scenic boat cruise on New Zealand’s largest lake, Lake Taupo.